Posts Tagged ‘Fashion’

One of the biggest trends we keep seeing for fall is white boots. We’ve spotted them at almost every fashion week and on every blog and Instagram feed and at first we didn’t quite know what to make of them. But after seeing them paired with so many different pieces from midi skirts to classic denim they’ve finally started to grow on us. To help you ease into the trend too, we’ve lined up five pairs we just know you’ll fall in love with!

The ‘It’ Girl BootTaking a page out of the It Girl herself’s handbook, we love these ankle boots by Alexa Chung. Their patent leather finish and block heel make them a great choice for fall, especially on those wet and rainy days.

The Tough ‘It’ Girl BootBlending two trends into one, Timberlands are still totally in going into this fall and winter. We love these classic whited out Timberland boots that soften up the edgy feel of this style, and we know you will too. Just try not to go hiking on a muddy trail with these babies, not cute!

The Trendsetter BootZara is always a top place to go for affordable trends, especially if you’re not sure how much you’ll commit to them. These kitten heel stiletto ankle boots are such a bang for your buck and are super trendy! Although they might not be for everyone, the right outfit and attitude can totally rock these.

The Classic Girl BootSometimes when trying a new trend, it’s best to play it safe and stick with a more classic version like these Chelsea boots from Dolce Vita. Their black sole, block heel and ankle pleating break up the white perfectly so they’re not as aggressive to the eye.

The Glam Girl BootThese Gianvito Rossi boots are everything! Although we’re seeing more ankle style boots on the streetstyle blogs, why not stand out even more with these knee-high cut ones? We love these paired with leggings, skinny jeans or with a long oversized jacket.

Fall 2017 has officially arrived and to help kick off both the new week and season, we’re going to recap all our favourite Style Nine to Five articles from the week prior, just to ensure we’re all on the same page when it comes to the world of SNTF fashion. From some incredible women who inspire us to the hottest accessory in men’s fashion, here are the top articles from last week.

The 5 Most Covetable Over-the-Knee Boots for FallNow that fall is officially here, boot season is finally making its debut. Over-the-knee boots are a hot trend for fall, as they add a bit of sass to any outfit and looks great on everyone! Here are five stylish over-the-knee boots you can rock this upcoming season. Read the full post here.

Men’s Fashion: How to Look “Chic” at an InterviewThere are many ways to sell yourself at an interview apart from being able to verbally express your interest in a passionate manner or possessing substantial work experience. When you enter the interview room and greet the hiring manager, it’s always crucial to make a good first impression through your social demeanor and, of course, your appearance. This post lays out a few tips on how to maximize your outfit potential at an interview to help secure that position offer! Read the full post here.

Why the Blazer Will be Your Go To Fall JacketFrom the leather jacket to the duster coat, the new IT jacket this fall is one we all own: the blazer. The traditionally smart and sophisticated piece has been updated and revitalized from its tedious office look, giving a fresh contemporary feel to every style choice. Here are our top blazer inspirations to rethink your next shopping trip. Read the full post here.

Where to Shop in Toronto for Great Vintage FindsWeekends no longer consist of heading to the mall to go shopping, but which vintage store should you discover. Toronto is home to many diverse and distinct vintage shops that hold their own unique personalities and here are our top choices. Read the full post here.

In just a few days, fall will officially be here on the calendar meaning that boots season will be making its debut. Over-the-knee boots are a hot trend for fall, as they add a bit of sass to any outfit and looks great on everyone! Here are five stylish over-the-knee boots you can rock this upcoming season.

Lady in redRed is definitely the color of the season and these patent leather slouchy boots are great if you’re looking for a POP! The bright colour and slouchy effect will go with everything from jeans and t-shirt to skirts and cozy sweaters.

Shop the Look:Gathered Leather Over the Knee High Heel Boots, $219, available at Zara

Sultry suedeIf you haven’t tried on a pair of Jeffery Campbell shoes before, you’re seriously missing out. The designer is known for his versatile and unique footwear, that will seriously stop people in their tracks. This beautiful over-the-knee style is made with leather and suede and its simple colour is perfect for fall.

Green with envyUK’s Public Desire specializes in unique and fun shoes and these stunning over-the-knee boots are just that! The army green is a neutral colour that’s perfect for fall. The lace-up detail helps to keep the boots securely in place, while the crystal clear heel makes these boots ever so unique.

Shop the Look: Tokyo Perspex Twist Heel Long Boots, $39.99, available at Public Desire

Laced detailsLace-up boots are amazing for fall and seriously can revamp any outfit. These Free People boots are a triple threat: the style is not only unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, the neutral hue can be paired with just about everything in your closet and they’re perfect for a chilly night out with friends.

Shop the Look: Tennesse Lace Up Boot, $275.88, available at Free People

Clean linesIf you’re in the mood to splurge on some new boots than we’ve got the perfect pair for you. These stunning Jimmy Choo boots are made with suede and real leather, making them very durable for the unpredictable fall weather. This pair will definitely be an investment piece for your wardrobe, but they’ll be a pair you’ll wear for years to come.

Product Info:Gathered Leather Over the Knee High Heel Boots, $219, available at ZaraJeffery Campbell Cienaga, $295, available at DuetTokyo Perspex Twist Heel Long Boots, $39.99, available at Public DesireTennesse Lace Up Boot, $275.88, available at Free PeopleJimmy Choo Myren Flat, $1,550, available at My Theresa

There’s nothing we love more than a little female empowerment and career motivation every now and then. Women who set their sights on their dreams and never stop chasing them until they’re made a reality; these are the kind of women that we want to give great recognition to as they set a stellar example for the rest of us hopefuls.

In honour of these women, we’ve created a narrowed down list of the top 6 female Canadian entrepreneurs that continue to inspire us and are leading examples for all females who are chasing after their dreams. We can all accomplish our hopes and dreams if we put in the work that is necessary, never doubt what we are truly capable and never stop believing in ourselves.

Bianca Venerayan and Dani Roche – Kastor & PolluxE-commerce and blogging sensations, Bianca Venerayan and Dani Roche are a creative powerhouse duo that has carved a pathway to success as the dynamic duo team that they are. After hitting it off as besties in high school they both discovered that they shared the same entrepreneurial spirit and came together to create their Kastor and Pollux empire; an empire which consists of blogging, photography, communications and fashion design. Working together for over eight years has definitely paid off for them from planning and designing launch parties for mega companies like Mogo, a Canadian finance company, or producing multiple videos, styling and photo projects at a time, these two are a force to be reckoned with and definitely an inspiration to us all.

Castle Ho- Boutique 1861Castle Ho took her infinite love for the Victorian era and created a magical little shop of all things girly, romantic and vintage-inspired in the heart of Montreal. Ever since its launch in 2012, it has been so successful that she opened a second boutique to accommodate her high flow of clientele. Boutique 1861 creates such a unique shopping experience unlike any other, the moment you step into the shop, you feel like you’re in a girly paradise dream and all of the clothing pieces and accessories are nothing less than eye catching and desirable. Castle Ho had a vintage fashion inspired vision and made it into a reality for all girly girls to enjoy.

Jenny BirdShe’s Canadian and she’s a leading jewelry designer with showrooms in Toronto, Paris, New York, LA, Chicago and more. Jenny Bird is not only an extremely talented jewelry designer but she is also passionate, hard working and driven, all of which was rooted from her upbringing in the small, artistic town of Elora, Ontario. Her jewelry designs have been a major success ever since her launch of the company in 2008, and Jenny Bird is now being sold in over 600 retailers worldwide. Jenny Bird is the ultimate girl boss who cannot be stopped; her jewelry never fails to be on trend and of course, they are pieces to die for!

Breanna Musgrove – Scout & CatalogueThe Vancouver-based designer and creator of accessories line Scout & Catalogue is one kick ass entrepreneur who knows how to bring her visions to life. With a lengthy background in fashion retail, marketing, and advertising, Breanna decided to branch off on her own and create her own accessories brand that cultivates a vision of the beachy Bohemian culture. Scout & Catalogue produces high quality, hand dyed pieces that will make you want to get out in the sunshine and play at the beach all day. Breanna made this brand her own in every possible way, allowing it to be unique and set apart from any other accessories brand.

Christie Lohr – Style Nine to FiveThat’s right, our very own Christie Lohr founder of Style Nine to Five is one hustling Canadian female entrepreneur. If you don’t already know what she’s about then you absolutely should. She created the first ever fashion job board in Canada, which includes major retailers such as Hudson’s Bay, Nordstrom, Lululemon, TOPSHOP and many more. She set out with the vision to help those wanting to work and succeed in the fashion industry. By creating Style Nine to Five, she has opened up a platform that gives all fashionista’s a fair chance to break into the industry. She has since gone on to launch Beauty Nine to Five, and even Style Nine to Five New York. Christie is career focused, driven and passionate and a leading example to us all.

Polka dots have forever held a place in our closets, sometimes in the spotlight or by taking a backseat as a retro ’60s flashback. Just like stripes, it’s a chic Parisian way to sport a cheeky print as it oozes cool girl street style. The classic print has moved on from being a simple modest button down and has been recaptured as a timeless print amongst men and women in a wide range of designs. From silk dresses to bright pops of colour, here are our favorite polka dot styles to inspire your next shopping trip!

Print x PrintThere’s nothing more polished then a fluid print on print look, making your wardrobe choice that much easier. Polka dots are one of the easier prints to play with because you can mix small polka dots with larger ones as long as you stick to one colour scheme, leaving you with a look that’s both effortless and classy.

Shop the Look: House of Harlow 1960 Bree Top, $140, available at Revolve

ColourExperimenting with colour is a fun way to show your own personal style while wearing polka dots. Trying a bold red or a soft pink is feminine and versatile enough to wear under a blazer or a flirty dress for a night out.

Romantic RufflesThere’s something sexy about a woman wearing ruffles, especially in delicate textures. A ruffled blouse in a silk fabric is a great alternative to the classic button down collar blouse and makes a statement with just a simple red lip and a pair of jeans.

BottomsWith the many pant trends available to try, polka dots are definitely at the top the list. There are a wide variety of styles from denim slacks to silk pajama pants and we must say, they are the most fun to wear. A wide leg pant in the print is a chic way to ease into polka dots as you can mute the print with a solid top.

AccessoriesWe love a cool retro accessory that livens up an outfit whether a platform shoe, a scarf, or a bag. Polka dots are the perfect way to add a playful and vintage touch to an outfit while still being modern and cool.

Summer is here once again and it’s all about staying cool and comfortable – at least for most people. Fashionistas not only emphasize the importance of convenience but also style during the season. Sandals, in particular, have become staple pieces for the feet, however, men always seem to disregard their style potential.

If you don’t have a problem with flaunting your feet in a pair of traditional summer flip-flops, why not flaunt them in style in a pair of hip gladiator sandals instead? After all, they add a pinch of chic to a laid-back summer outfit and could be considered plus points for the ladies! But what is it about these sandals that make them omitted by men? Is it the somewhat “Babylonian” look? Or the seemingly unnecessary numerous straps?Whatever the reason, men should not be ashamed to wear this fashion forward footwear. Gladiator sandals are not only chic, but they are also extremely versatile. Here are three ways to rock them without worrying about looking too “primitive”.

Look 1: Sandals and Pants

One of my favourite summers looks, that you can never go wrong with is the sandals and pants combo. Linen or cotton pants are great summer pieces to ensure compromise between comfort and style. The sandals greatly complement the pants giving the overall outfit the summer vibe it needs.

Shop the look: Leather sandals with brown and orange straps, $69.90, available at Zara.

Look 2: Sandals with Shorts

Of the three looks, the sandals and shorts combo would be the most acknowledgeable. Apart from keeping the legs and feet conveniently exposed to the summer breeze, shorts are also a major seasonal go-to piece for men. Jean shorts or shorts with prints tend to meld well with gladiator sandals.

“Why the socks?” they would ask. It may seem like an awkward combination, but socks with sandals is actually an emerging trend. The look is a mix of preppy with an added twist of minimalism. To those who are fashionably ambitious, the look is often regarded as avant-garde and innovative. Perhaps, it could also help protect the feet from mosquitoes?

It’s always refreshing when you learn about an individual that’s disrupting the fashion industry for a good reason. Silvia Gallo is the owner of jeane & jax, a Montreal-based vegan handbag line that encompasses the importance of cruelty-free fashion and is a PETA approved vegan brand and a partner in the movement of shifting the focus from leather to vegan leather. Her stunning collection offers consumers a higher end alternative to animal leather and is quickly becoming popular with both Canadian and American consumers. We had the opportunity to meet with Silvia and see her collection firsthand, and also learn about the ins and outs of launching a business and why she is so passionate about cruelty-free fashion.

SNTF: Silvia, you’ve worked in the retail industry for over 15 years. Can you first tell us about those early years of your career?

SG: With a B.Com in Marketing and a DEC in Fashion Design, I knew I wanted to work in the Fashion Industry and combine both fields of study.My first position after graduating was as a Brand Manager for Baby Phat Canada. At the time, Baby Phat and Phat Farm were very popular brands and I was honoured to have the opportunity of working for such a successful company. It was the first step in my career that allowed me to learn about buying, importing, selling, advertising, trade shows, distribution, and more. As a brand manager, you are involved with everything to do with the brand, which in turn gives you a good understanding of the business as a whole.

SNTF: When did you realize that you were ready to venture on your own and start your own handbag line?

SG: After many years in the industry working for reputable brands, building networks, travelling, gaining knowledge and experience, I felt that my career had reached a plateau. I felt there was no longer any personal or career growth left working for other companies. I not only felt ready to start my own business but felt more determined and empowered than ever before!

SNTF: Your collection, jeane & jax, is a vegan handbag line that encompasses the importance of cruelty-free fashion at an attainable price point. How did you know this was the right project for you, and how did you set about starting your own business?

SG: There are many professions that allow you to make a difference in this world, save lives, or help people. Throughout my career in the fashion industry, which can sometimes be materialistic, it wasn’t always easy for me to measure what my contribution to society was. When I decided to start my own business, it was important for me to do something that could make a positive impact.

Cruelty-free fashion will continue to be important and I am happy to offer consumers a higher end alternative to animal leather. Traditionally branded handbags have always been made out of real leather and are very expensive. I wanted to show consumers that you can have a high- quality handbag at a reasonable price, without causing harm to animals.

SNTF: Can you tell us about the materials you use and the importance of being PETA approved?

SG: We only use the highest quality polyurethane on the market and never use PVC. Our PU is the closest fabric to real leather, matching it in terms of durability, water resistance and aesthetics. It also has microfiber pores making it breathable and supple. Technology in fabric has come a long way and it is becoming harder for consumers to tell the difference between real and vegan leather.In addition, all our hardware is custom made to ensure that there is no lead or toxic materials in our metals.

It’s important for us to be PETA-approved as it shows our customers credibility and gives consumers reassurance about our product. We are proud to align ourselves with organizations that support our movement to shift consumers to vegan products rather than animal based ones.

SNTF: We know that no two days are the same for an entrepreneur. But can you give our readers an idea of what your day looks running your own brand.

SG: As an entrepreneur, I am involved in everything to do with the brand and business, which means no two days are the same, as you mentioned. One day could be spent designing a new collection or planning a photo shoot and the next could be arranging the shipment of a container or preparing sales tax returns. It pretty much depends on what needs to be prioritized on each given day. Some days are creative and others are analytical. I love that I get to use both sides of my brain!

SNTF: Did you have any obstacles while launching your business? Anything you would never do again?

SG: The biggest challenge in launching a new brand is to create awareness and visibility without having the big marketing budget that existing brands have. It takes time to become recognized yet it is human nature to want immediate results. There is a lesson to be learned in everything you do and unless you live through it, you cannot learn from it. That is the same in business and for that reason; there is nothing I wouldn’t do again.

SNTF: How do you see jeane & jax evolving over time? What’s the next thing you’d like to accomplish with the brand?

SG: There are many exciting developments in the works for jeane & jax and look forward to sharing them with you in the future.

SNTF: Given that you have a background in marketing and brand management, how have these experiences helped you run and grow your brand?

SG: My background in marketing and brand management was definitely crucial in my ability to start and run my own business. Having the opportunity to manage other brands in the past, allowed me to work in all facets of the industry, giving me a solid foundation to build upon. No matter which company I worked for, I always made decisions as though it was my own, and every brand I represented became a part of my lifestyle. This was all in preparation for what I feel I was meant to do!

SNTF: When you were growing up, were there any people who influenced your approach to work? What was the best advice you got early in your career?

SG: My father is the person who has influenced and inspired me the most. As an entrepreneur, he taught me resilience, strength to persevere, and especially how to “hustle.” No matter how hard it was, or how tired he was, he never skipped a beat!

The best advice I received is don’t wait for the right opportunities to come to you. You need to create your own opportunities in life. Nothing will just fall into your lap…go out there and make it happen!

SNTF: And finally, what do you wake up looking forward to? What’s next for your career?

SG: I wake up looking forward to every new day and all the possibilities it can bring. I am inspired by opportunities and always ready for a new challenge! I recently partnered with Valerie Munger, a colleague from my past; to launch a new brand called MATLETIK, which focuses on active wear for moms-to-be. It has already been gaining great reviews and is distributed in active wear and maternity stores across Canada. We recently won 1st prize for the province of Quebec in an entrepreneurship contest. Excited to see what the future brings for both jeane & jax and MATLETIK!

To stay up-to-date with Silvia’s journey and to learn more about jeane & jax make sure to follow her on Instagram or check out her website.

We live for a good party, especially when it’s outdoors in the summer with some of our favourite food, musicians, and friends. Festival season is jam packed into a few months and although we might already be mid-way, there are still a bunch of day parties, festivals and outdoor events to conquer! If you’re like us, these summer events give you a chance to play dress up and get creative with our outfits. We live for fun yet functional pieces, so we put together our must-have festival accessories.

Rock ‘N’ Roll

If you’re a seasoned festival attendee, you know that a backpack is on the top of the list of must-have items. Who really wants to dance the day away holding onto something? This small leather studded backpack from Zara is the perfect size for all your essentials like your keys, water, phone and wallet (and won’t leave much room for your unprepared friend’s items). It’s also convertible and its straps can be adjusted to a crossbody bag, perfect for those after parties!

Another important item to surviving a full day of fun in the sun is a hat and the authority in headwear in Toronto Brimz has you covered. Still going strong, everyone needs to own a least one dad hat and we thought this Migos Dad Hat was a perfect fit for a summer rooftop party or music festival.

Shoes can both make or break your day and outfit, so finding something that’s stylish yet comfortable is important. We say stick with a sneaker like these white ones from Topshop, perfect to wear with denim shorts or midi dress! With padded insoles and just over an inch platform these shoes will keep you dancing all day long.

Who wants to be held back by a purse, or worry about your money and ID falling out of your pockets while jamming to your favourite DJ set? These shoulder holsters by LD West might just be your saving grace. Available in a variety of styles and colours, these holsters include a wallet and pouch along with a cellphone pouch in select phone model fits. LD West straps are loved by hairstylists, tattoo artist and bartenders alike along with bloggers and anyone who just wants to be a little more hands-free.

Shop the Look: Cell Phone Leather Shoulder Holsters, from $89.99, available at LD West

Private Party

You’ve probably seen them while scrolling through your Instagram Feed, the Private Party brand is viral apparel brand loved by bloggers, Instagrammers and even Khloé Kardashian. Their iconic one-piece bathing suit with cheeky lyrics, slang and other written quotes doubles as the best bodysuit every. You can also customize your own quote, so get your girl gang together and get creative!

Shop the Look: Worst Behaviour Swimsuit, $99, available at Private Party

Put the loud prints aside and embrace a new trend that has been a hot talk amongst fashion addicts! In the recent years, tassels, fringe, and pompoms have become popular embellishments to clothing and accessories, reminiscing the classic styles of the past but still embodying a fashion forward statement.

Luxury brands such as Versace, Gucci, and Balmain have adhered to this trend, boosting its popularity via the endorsements of many A-list celebrities including Gigi Hadid, Cara Delevingne, and the Kardashians.

Eventually, the expanse of the styles has become tremendous, allowing popular brands such as Forever 21, H&M, and Zara to fuse these “danglers” into their collections. Stay chic by getting your hands on these affordable pieces!

Tassels

French fashion house Balmain makes great use of this style in most of their pieces. Not only do tassels make clothing and accessories stand out heavily, but they also project a high level of sophistication that immediately induce conversations amongst style enthusiasts.Pieces with tassels are appropriate for dressy occasions or if you’re ambitious, in the office. Accessories with tassels are more versatile and can be worn practically anytime.

Shop the look: Tassel Trim Self-Tie Top, $30.90, available at Forever 21 and Parka with tassels, $89.90, available at Zara

Fringe

A prevalent style of the ‘70s, fringe is back to “swish” those monotonous outfit days! Rock this style with minimal pieces to tone down the potential “costume-y” vibe but still look fresh and professional in the eyes of commons. Similar to tassels, fringe can be worn to intimate dinners or formal events throughout the day.

Shop the look: Fringed sweatshirt, $15.90, available at Zara and Fringed hem skirt, $39.99, available at Zara

Pompoms

Of the three styles, pompoms definitely take the cake for being the most adorable! They have not only become popular to adults but also to young fashion goers. However, don’t let the cute style fool you – models have fiercely rocked pompoms on notable runway shows! Pompom-embellished pieces can be worn for daytime gatherings or even at the beach.

Shop the look: Chasym Linen Top, $119, available at Club Monaco and JADEtribe Basket Mini Pom Bag, $149.22, available at Shopbop

Now that summer 2017 is well underway, we wanted to take a serious look at the trends that are popping up everywhere — from the streets to the feeds of our favourite fashionistas and street style stars — and one trend we couldn’t help but love is gingham. It not only gives us a feeling of nostalgia — instantly reminding us of our childhood, but it also looks flattering on all body types, especially if you’re not a fan of summer stripes. Regardless of your taste or price point, there’s a gingham piece suitable for everyone! Get on the gingham bandwagon with one (or all) of these summer picks.

The Bather

When you’re not lounging at the pool or beach, a gingham printed bathing suit can easily be worn with a pair of high-waisted pants for an on-trend look.

A pair of gingham printed shoes is perfect for those who don’t want to fully commit to the gingham style. We can’t get enough of these ankle-wrap heeled sandals; they are far too chic to stay hidden under long pants, so make sure to wear them with a flirty summer dress or skirt.

Nothing reminds us more of summer than a cheeky gingham playsuit. Perfect for a picnic or BBQ, you’ll stay cool in this playsuit with its Bardot style top and cropped ankle.

Shop the look: ASOS Off Shoulder Jumpsuit with Tie Sleeve in Gingham, $56, available at ASOS

The Top

Here you’ve got all of summer’s top trends covered with just one piece: gingham and off the shoulder. This top can be dressed up with a pair of white cropped or flared jeans and heels or down with a pair of denim cut offs and mules.

A curve-hugging gingham dress is definitely a wardrobe staple you’ll wear for summers to come.This blue gingham print is perfect for those who aren’t a fan of the traditional black and white gingham style.

Ditch your traditional work pants and opt for a pair of stylish gingham trousers! These cropped skinny pants have a flattering fit and can be dressed up with your favourite heels or down with a pair of flats.

Style Nine to Five is a fashion job website that connects fashion industry employers and job seekers with the largest listing of fashion jobs in Canada, including a pre-screened resume database and expert advice columns.

Style Nine to Five contains the latest and most extensive listing of fashion jobs in Canada which attracts top employers and fashion industry job seekers alike.